Batu Lanchang Food Court goes green to reduce waste

The popular Batu Lanchang Food Court is taking a significant step towards environmental sustainability with a new green initiative launching on May 15th, 2024.

This initiative aims to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices among both hawkers and customers.

Phasing out single-use plastics at the food court

Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong announced the initiative during a press conference held at the food court.

The key feature is the elimination of single-use paper and plastic plates, cups, forks, spoons, and chopsticks for dine-in customers.

“They will cease providing single-use paper and plastic plates, cups, and chopsticks to dine-in customers, and all hawkers here have agreed to this policy,” Ong remarked.

He commended the food court representatives for proposing this environmentally conscious approach.

While takeaway options will still utilise plastic packaging, the initiative strongly encourages patrons to bring their own reusable containers for food packing.

Ong emphasised, “We strongly encourage patrons to bring their own tiffin carriers for food packing.”

Promoting recycling and waste segregation

The initiative goes beyond simply eliminating single-use items. To facilitate proper waste management, each stall will be equipped with two designated bins.

One bin will collect used plates and utensils, while the other will be designated for food waste.

“Apart from that, the hawkers are encouraging customers to return the plates and utensils to the respective stalls or put them at the nearest designated spot,” Ong explained.

“We hope that the community will adopt this eco-friendly practice.”

To further promote reusable containers, four stalls – numbers 17, 27, 64, and 76 – will be offering a special promotion from May 15th to 17th.

Customers who bring their own tumblers or containers for drinks will receive a discount of RM1.

Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Choong You Ray expressed his support for the initiative, highlighting its role in waste reduction and environmental protection.

Representatives from the Batu Lanchang Food Court, Tan Ai Choo, Ooi Yong Kuang, and Yeap Boh Beng, were also present at the press conference, signifying their commitment to this green effort.

Source: Buletin Mutiara